Buckingham Palace commences Summer Opening

Visitors will see the State Rooms, which are lavishly furnished with some of the greatest pieces in the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Poussin and Canaletto.

Additionally, the State Rooms boast a sculpture by Canova and "exquisite examples" of Sevres porcelain as well as some of the finest English and French furniture.

It also plays host to to the Royal Faberge and a special exhibit of the Duchess of Cambridge's wedding dress until October 3rd.

Tours of Buckingham Palace will also include its garden, described as a "walled oasis in the middle of London".

Over thirty different species of birds and more than 350 different wild flowers call the garden home.

Visitors that chose to take the Exclusive Tour will be directed through the palace by an expert guide, who will offer special insights into the history and use of the State Rooms, and comment on the works of art on display.

The Exclusive Tour costs £65 per person and includes a copy of the official guidebook, a glass of champagne and a 20 per cent discount in the Royal Collection shop.

Opening hours are from 09:30 to 18:30 GMT, with a typical visit lasting just under three hours.

Normal adult admission costs £17.50, while over-60s and students are charged only £16, under-17s £10 and under-5s go in for free.

Special A Royal Day Out tickets are also available, which grant access to the State Rooms, the Royal Mews and the Queen's Gallery.

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